Although Nankeen Kestrel was historically reported from Ashmore Reef none was
seen on any of 16 surveys of the atoll by regular monitors since 1996 and none
reported by casual visitors in that period. That was until the recent visit in
April when 7-8 birds were seen daily. In addition, three were seen on Browse
Island and one on Adele Island. Photographs have been received of one that made
a ship its home while moored near Scott Reef in May. Normally a rare vagrant on
the Cocos (Keeling) Islands way out in the Indian Ocean, Pam Jones advises that
six have taken up residence there since April, one each on Direction and Home
Islands, and at least 4 on West island. That's an impressive ocean crossing for
a bird normally regarded as a short distance migrant at best.
As at least most if not all birds are juveniles, this movement would seem to be
a dispersal of young following a succession of wet and productive breeding
years.
It also suggests that similar events in times past led to the colonisation of
remote islands such as Christmas and Norfolk Islands.
Mike Carter
30 Canadian Bay Road
Mount Eliza VIC 3930
Tel (03) 9787 7136
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